Default Settings

On my computer are two e mail addresses for one person. The first address, the one the computer goes to first, is incorrect, so each time I write I go up and change the address from the default setting to the correct address. I am fully aware of the absurdity of such a cumbersome approach, and how I just need to go and change the address setting, but I can also see the valuable lesson it’s teaching me.

Like my computer, I have countless default settings.  I am sure that I was born with some, others have become the default setting over years of practice. Some of the settings are good, others not. One of the things about default settings is that you don’t have to think about them; they’re automatic. That’s a good thing if such settings are the right ones, but a real challenge if they are not.

• If I see something in a store that is unique or exciting, I always want to purchase it before financially prudent thinking kicks in.
• If I feel someone is taking advantage of me, I close down and write them off.
• When I reach a point of frustration with a project, I begin imagining some new endeavor.

These are just some of my default settings, but I am slowly learning that they do not need to remain so. If I can recognize them, and make a conscious effort to change them, I am on my way towards significant growth.

First I need to recognize the default setting, then I need to change the setting to a better one . . . I go get a cup of coffee before I purchase whatever has ignited my passion . . . I actively try to stay open to others and express my feelings rather than walking away . . . and I write down the new idea so it will be there when I have worked through my current project.

At first, it feels awkward and cumbersome, like going up and changing a wrong address, but eventually the new address and the new behavior becomes the default setting.

At least that’s my hope.